From green card chaos to digital border controls, here's what changed in May,2026, and what is coming next.
United States: DHS Clarifies Green Card Memo
The Department of Homeland Security says most immigrants seeking permanent residency in the U.S. can remain in the country, clarifying a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announcement issued last week.
On May 22, USCIS released a policy directive stating that most immigrants living temporarily in the United States would be required to leave the country and apply for permanent residency from abroad. However, DHS said the policy is not a blanket change and that individual immigration officers will decide, on a case-by-case basis, whether applicants must leave the U.S. to obtain a green card.
Europe: EU Border Controls Go Digital
The Entry/Exit System is now live across all 29 Schengen countries, introducing biometric border checks for travelers entering and leaving the bloc.
Lisbon and other airports have reported lengthy queues, with some travelers missing flights as authorities adjust to the new system. Meanwhile, ETIAS, the mandatory pre-travel authorization for visa-exempt visitors, remains on track for a late-2026 rollout.
Africa: US Consolidates Visa Processing in Nigeria
The US State Department is consolidating visa processing operations in Nigeria into Lagos, with operations in Abuja reportedly winding down.
The move is expected to reduce access to visa services and increase travel burdens for applicants across parts of the region.
New Zealand: Expanded Post-Study Work Options Announced
New Zealand will introduce a six-month short-term graduate visa for Level 5–7 qualifications and extend post-study work opportunities for graduate diploma holders.
The changes take effect on November 16, 2026, and are designed to provide graduates with greater flexibility in transitioning to employment.
Ireland: Employment Permit Rules Updated
Following a 2025 review, Ireland confirmed 32 updates to occupations eligible under its employment permit system.
The revisions target labour shortages across key sectors including construction, healthcare, transport, and agri-food.
Japan: Tougher Immigration Monitoring and New Tourist Transit Card
Japanese immigration authorities announced they will begin using publicly available social media activity to help identify individuals suspected of overstaying visas or engaging in unauthorized employment.
Officials say the initiative is intended to strengthen enforcement against immigration violations, particularly among short-term visitors. Travelers should remember that tourist visas generally do not permit income-generating activities.
At the same time, Japan is introducing the Tourist Pasmo card for international visitors. Scheduled for launch in May 2026, the rechargeable IC card will allow travelers to pay for trains, buses, and everyday purchases, simplifying travel throughout the country.
Australia: Faster Visa Processing Arrives as Visa-Hopping Rules Tighten
Australia has launched a new digital visa processing system aimed at speeding up approvals for students and skilled workers.
The updated platform introduces real-time application tracking, expanded automation, digital verification tools, and priority processing channels for urgent cases. Officials say the changes should improve transparency and reduce processing times during periods of high demand.
The reforms also expand fast-track pathways for international students and skilled professionals, helping applicants better plan travel, employment, and study arrangements.
However, Australia is simultaneously tightening migration controls. Beginning July 1, 2026, several temporary visa holders will no longer be permitted to switch to student visas or certain work visas while remaining in Australia.
The government says the changes are intended to prevent "visa hopping" and close loopholes that previously allowed some individuals to extend their stay indefinitely by moving between temporary visa categories.
What to Watch in June 2026
Ebola Response — UAE & Canada
Both countries are expanding travel screening measures for passengers arriving from affected regions in Central Africa.
Travellers should expect evolving entry requirements and enhanced health screening procedures.
World Cup Visa Bond Changes — United States
Certain financial bond requirements are being waived for confirmed World Cup ticketholders traveling to tournament events.
Additional eligibility criteria will apply depending on nationality and travel circumstances.
Conclusion
The overarching pattern this month is one of tightening controls presented alongside modernization efforts.
From biometric borders in Europe to social media monitoring in Japan, governments are collecting more traveller data than ever before. Meanwhile, the United States appears to be reducing consular access in parts of Africa even as it prepares to host one of the world's largest sporting events.
For international travellers, the message is clear:
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Check entry requirements early.
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Carry complete supporting documentation.
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Expect longer processing times and potential delays.
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Monitor policy updates closely, particularly for visa-free travel and transit requirements.
As governments continue to digitize borders and expand screening measures, preparation is becoming just as important as the journey itself. With Radius, you can have a seamless transaction within 1-24 hours.
